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Liverwort, American | | Name : | Liverwort, American | | Botanical : | Anemone hepatica | | Synonyms : | Hepatica triloba. Hepatica triloba, var. americana or obtusa. Round-leaved Hepatica. Noble Liverwort. Liverleaf. Liverweed. Trefoil. Herb Trinity. Kidneywort. Edellebere. | | Family : | Ranunculaceae | | Parts Used : | Leaves and flowers. | | Habitat : | Cooler latitudes of the North Temperate Zone. | | Description : | The name of the genus may be derived from epatikos (affecting the liver) or from epar (the liver), from a likeness in its appearance to that organ. The Hepaticas are distinguished by having carpels without feathery tails and by the involucre of three simple leaves being so close to the flower as to resemble a calyx.
The leaves are broad kidney or heart shaped, about 2 inches long and broad, with three broad, angular lobes, leathery, smooth and dark green above, almost evergreen, placed on long, slender foot-stalks growing direct from the root. In the wild state the flowers are generally blue, more rarely rose or white, but in cultivation many other tints are to be found. There are numerous garden varieties, growing best in deep loam or clay, several having double flowers.
The leaves should be gathered during flowering time in March. | | Constituents : | Liverwort contains tannin, sugar, mucilage, etc.; its value is due to its astringent principle. A full analysis has not been made. | | Uses : | Demulcent, tonic, astringent, vulnerary. It has been described as 'an innocent herb which may be taken freely in infusion and in syrup.' It is a mild remedy in disorders of the liver, indigestion, etc., and possessing pectoral properties it is employed in coughs, bleeding of the lungs and diseases of the chest generally.
The infusion, made from 1 OZ. of the dried herb to 1 pint of boiling water, is slightly astringent and mucilaginous. Frequent doses of 1/2 teacupful have been recommended in the early stages of consumption. In some countries the whole plant is regarded as a vulnerary and astringent. In cataplasms it is valued in hernia, affections of the urinary passages and skin diseases.
A distilled water is used for freckles and sunburn. Though in use from ancient days, its mild character has caused it to be little used. | | Dosage : | 30 to 120 grains. Fluid extract, 1/2 to 2 drachms. |
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